Thrissur - Athirapally Waterfalls

Athirapally Waterfalls

Athirappilly (Athirapally) Waterfalls, often hailed as the "Niagara Falls of India," is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Athirappilly Panchayat, within the Chalakudy Taluk of Thrissur District in Kerala. This captivating waterfall, cascading from a height of 81.5 feet, is the largest waterfall in Kerala and a prime tourist attraction in the state.

The frothy waters of the Athirapally Waterfalls cascade down from the Anamudi mountains of the Western Ghats. Situating at the entrance of the Sholayar ranges, these 80 feet high and 330 feet wide spectacular waterfall flows through the dense greenery of Vazhachal Forest toward the enormous Arabian Sea, offering a breathtaking vista of the sparkling water, ultramarine sky and emerald jungles. The captivating beauty of Athirapally Waterfalls also attracts a lot of nature lovers and photo fanatics.

Athirapally Waterfalls is a perfect destination for family outings. There are several family-friendly activities to enjoy, such as picnicking near the falls, exploring the scenic views, and taking leisurely walks along the well-maintained trails. The area around the falls offers numerous spots for photography, capturing the beauty of the cascading water and lush greenery.

For adventure enthusiasts, Athirapally Waterfalls offers several hiking trails that provide a rewarding experience. Trekking to the top of the falls offers a spectacular view of the Western Ghats and the Sholayar Hills. The dense forests surrounding the falls are rich in biodiversity, making it an ideal location for eco-tourism activities. Ornithologists cannot miss this place as it is the only place in the Western Ghats where four endangered species of Hornbill are seen.

The cascading wonder, the majestic Athirappilly Falls has become a sought-after filming location, adding to its fame and charm. The falls have been featured in numerous Bollywood and regional movies, adding to the cinematic appeal of scenes with their dramatic and awe-inspiring presence. The combination of the falls' natural beauty and the lush greenery of the surrounding Vazhachal Forest has made it a favourite location for filmmakers seeking to capture the essence of India's natural splendour. Films like "Guru," starring Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan, and "Dil Se," featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Manisha Koirala, captured the romantic essence of Athirappilly Waterfalls. Even the epic blockbuster "Bahubali," one of India's most celebrated films, featured the grandeur of Athirappilly Waterfalls in some scenes, further solidifying Athirappilly’s cinematic appeal.